Arjen Buijs appointed Personal Professor of Human-Nature Relations and Transformative Change

Buijs investigates how people's experiences of nature shape environmental values, collective action and societal change. His research explores how connectedness to nature inspires people to take action. This includes initiatives such as community gardens, food forests and citizen science projects that monitor and help address environmental pollution. He also examines how such local initiatives can contribute to broader socio-cultural and political transformations. "I am particularly interested in understanding how strengthening human–nature relationships can contribute to more sustainable futures," says Buijs. "My research explores how engaged citizens can help catalyse wider societal and policy change."

A second focus of Buijs' research is public support for biodiversity conservation. He studies how different values and perspectives on nature develop in society and how they are reflected in political and public debates.

Although many studies show broad public support for nature conservation, recent political developments have also revealed growing resistance to environmental policies. Through several European research projects, Buijs investigates the drivers of this backlash and the increasing polarisation surrounding environmental issues.

Throughout his career, Buijs has focused on increasing the societal impact of environmental research. He advocates a Relational Biodiversity approach, which combines ecological knowledge with a better understanding of how people experience and value the biological diversity of nature in their everyday lives.

Alongside his academic work, Buijs is actively involved in community initiatives, including green schoolyards, community gardens and other local projects that strengthen the relationship between people and nature.

Arjen Buijs is an environmental sociologist in the Forest and Nature Conservation Policy Group at Wageningen University & Research. Since joining WUR in 1996, his research has focused on human–nature relationships, public support for biodiversity conservation and the societal transformations needed to create more sustainable futures.